Escalators near mofussil bus stand in disrepair again

Less than a month after it was repaired and restored, the escalator that is part of the mechanised foot overbridge near the mofussil bus stand in Kozhikode has once again stopped functioning much to the chagrin of commuters who largely depend on it to cross the busy Rajaji Road.

The escalators on one side at both ends of the bridge have stopped functioning forcing commuters to use the stairs. With the two lifts on the bridge often overcrowded, senior citizens and differently abled people are among those most affected by the situation.

The escalators on the mofussil bus stand side of the bridge had remained in a state of disrepair for around four months before they were temporarily fixed at the end of May. The company that installed the escalators had sought three months for the repair, citing worn-out parts and the need to custom-make certain components.

The escalator is part of the State’s first-ever mechanised foot overbridge, which connects the bus stand with the V.K. Krishna Menon Indoor Stadium across Rajaji Road. Opened in 2020 amid much hype, it proved to be a boon for commuters who were unable to cross the road after dividers were installed. Hailed as a bold step to enhance the city’s walkability, it soon became a symbol of a developing Kozhikode.

However, the recurring breakdowns of the escalators have undermined the very purpose of their installation.

Published - June 15, 2025 11:57 pm IST